Philippines warns Timor-Leste on POGO relocation risks

Jenny Ortiz October 3, 2024

The Philippines has cautioned Timor-Leste about the potential risks posed by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). During a state visit, Philippine Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla conveyed a message from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to Timor-Leste’s President José Ramos-Horta, urging the Southeast Asian nation to reconsider allowing POGOs to relocate within its borders.

This warning follows the Philippine government’s decision to ban POGO activities domestically, after multiple incidents of crime, regulatory violations, and public safety concerns. “Given the shared Catholic heritage and values of both the Philippines and Timor-Leste, the Philippine government deemed it essential to inform Timor-Leste of the potential socio-economic and security challenges posed by allowing POGOs to operate within its borders,” the DOJ said.

The Philippine POGO shutdown

The Philippine government’s decision to terminate POGO operations was driven by challenges, including rising crime rates, evasion of regulations, and threats to public safety. In his State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July 2023, Marcos announced the complete shutdown of POGO operations by the end of the year. This decision has already resulted in the departure of over 3,000 POGO workers and the downgrading of nearly 6,000 visas.

Remulla used his visit to Timor-Leste to reinforce the negative impact POGOs had on the Philippines, stating that issues like human trafficking and illegal employment practices flourished under POGO operations.

Timor-Leste faces critical decision

Timor-Leste, reportedly one of the potential destinations for relocating POGO operations, faces a critical decision. Remulla warned that while POGOs may promise economic benefits, they bring numerous risks, including increased crime and regulatory challenges. He encouraged Timor-Leste to thoroughly examine the broader implications of welcoming POGOs, as the negative socio-economic effects could far outweigh any short-term gains.

Remulla also stressed the importance of regional cooperation in addressing illicit activities often linked to offshore gaming operations, advocating for greater collaboration between Southeast Asian countries to maintain security and stability.